Oct 31, 2014

Getting Started on my Orchid Flannel Project + New Patterns!



Question: Is there really any difference between lilac, orchid, and lavender?  If so, what is it?

Oct 30, 2014

Oct 29, 2014

Calling All Redheads!



Friends, I have become a little obsessed of late with red hair.

Oct 28, 2014

"We interrupt this Python" or Sidetracked by Organic Cotton Flannel



You know that old chestnut about women being afraid of snakes?  Well, I can't vouch for its accuracy or lack thereof, but I can say that, much to my surprise, every woman who has caught sight of my python jacket-in-progress has totally oohed and aahed over it -- my octogenarian mother included.

Oct 24, 2014

The Vinyl Frontier



I admit it: sometimes the blog title comes first and then I write the post to match it.  I think you'll agree, "The Vinyl Frontier" beats first runner-up, "The Vinyl Solution." 

Oct 22, 2014

Digging Out the Faux Python



When I first started sewing five years ago, I used to shop at two bargain-basement fabric stores on 35th St.  One is gone for good and the other seems to have changed hands: I haven't been by in a long time.

Oct 21, 2014

Reversible Garments -- YEA or NAY?



Friends, what are your thoughts about reversible garments?  Do you own any?  Have you ever made any -- and if so, was it worth the trouble?

Oct 18, 2014

Oct 14, 2014

Oct 10, 2014

Good-bye, Elna Lotus + How Did I Not Know About Botani Trimmings?



Friends, I sold another sewing machine this afternoon: my Elna Lotus.

Oct 9, 2014

In Search Of....High Quality Rib Knit Waistbanding



Above is a photo of an Italian Valstarino men's jacket (manufactured by the Milanese company Valstar).

Oct 6, 2014

Peter Models the Op-Art Anorak!



Readers, it's here, ahead of schedule and ready for its close-up!  (That's Versace up top, btw, not me.)

To see me model my newly completed black and white op-art anorak, just click here.

Oct 2, 2014